What is the difference between and NP and PA?
A nurse practitioner must be a registered nurse (RN) who then returns for university training in advanced practice nursing. NPs subsequently obtain a distinctive license from the nursing board. Physician Assistants often have, but are not required to have, prior ancillary medical experience before entering their university training program. PAs are licensed by the state medical board. Both NPs and PAs are licensed to prescribe medications, order lab, x-ray, MRI, physical therapy etc. Both may review results and make recommendations and provide patient education. Both have some restrictions on prescribing narcotics. Both are required to have continuing education to maintain their license.
